The AusCannaPodcast

This week, I’m joined by Churchill Fellow Tom Forrest, a sustainable grower, educator, and long-time cannabis advocate, for a wide-ranging chat about the future of cannabis cultivation in Australia. Tom isn’t just growing cannabis… He’s growing a movement! In this episode, we explore what pulled him toward plant medicine and why true sustainability in cannabis is about action, not optics. We get i...

What does it look like when a doctor helps rewrite a country’s cannabis laws? Dr. JC Scicluna- Medical & Global Business Development Consultant isn’t just treating patients — he’s shaping the future of cannabis in Europe. From Malta’s bold move into adult-use legalisation to the power of real-world data and global research gaps, this conversation dives deep into what happens when medicine, policy,...

For years, the cannabis industry has been stuck in a potency arms race, chasing ever-higher THC percentages as if that’s the only measure of quality. But what if we’ve been looking at it all wrong? What if moderate THC cultivars could actually provide a better, more sustainable experience for patients—without the downsides of ultra-potent cannabis? In this episode, I sit down with Camilo Cortissoz...

In this episode of the AusCannaPodcast, I sit down with Sacha La Forgia, Co-Founder of Golden Days Cultivators, to explore his unique journey from winemaking and distilling to producing top-tier medicinal cannabis. With a background as a qualified grape grower and multiple international awards, Sacha brings an artisan’s touch to cultivation—focusing on quality, craft, and precision. His experience...

In this episode, I sit down with Dane Herbst—better known as Boof —the mastermind behind CannaBudGrow ’s premium medicinal cannabis. As Head of Cultivation, Dane isn’t just growing plants; he’s shaping an industry, setting new quality standards, and ensuring patients get the best medicine possible. We talk about cultivation challenges, global cannabis markets, and what it takes to thrive in an evo...

I’m back for Season 3! Kicking things off with a bang, I’m sitting down with Brian Bain—an industry heavyweight with over 20 years in cannabis and 12 years in innovative agriculture. As CEO and Founder of Mother Labs, Brian has been at the forefront of genetic development, shaping some of the most exciting cultivars on the market today. In this episode, we dive into the art and science of breeding...

2024 was a year of growth, connection, and unforgettable moments for the AusCannaPodcast! From rapid-fire questions that sparked laughter and deep insights to the immersive “On The Road” series that brought you closer to the cannabis community, this episode looks back at the highlights from my first two seasons. From listener favourites to a recap of the most downloaded episodes, join me as I refl...

In this fun and fast-paced cross-collaboration episode of the AusCannaPodcast, I sit down with Andrew Dowling and Mitch Kurz from Phytoca for a lively chat that’s anything but business as usual. Andrew, a passionate advocate for cannabis legalization, brings a sharp perspective to the tricky intersection of law, policy, and alternative medicine. Mitch, the entrepreneurial force behind Phytoca, is...

The Catch-Up is a collaboration between Give and Toke and AusCannaReviews. Paul and Christina come together monthly to explore what’s happening in Cannabis in Australia and around the world.  In this episode: * What’s Up? (0.40) * Victoria’s drug driving changes (3:45) * Medicinal cannabis sales booming (4:50) * Health bodies call for end to SAS-B (7:50) * Green’s Legalisation bill fails (12:20) *...

In this episode of the AusCannaPodcast, I sit down with Michael Sassano, CEO and Chairman of SOMAI Pharmaceuticals, to explore the cutting-edge innovations driving the pharmaceutical cannabis industry. Michael shares insights on SOMAI’s state-of-the-art EU-GMP facility, the company’s sustainable production practices, and the exciting opportunities in emerging markets like Germany, Spain, and Austr...

In this "On the Road" episode, I sit down with Adam Carvalho, Production Manager with Australian Natural Therapeutics Group (ANTG) whose path from the restaurant world to cannabis production is as surprising as it is inspiring. In this episode, we dive into stories of Humboldt County and memories from Eve Farms, uncovering the challenges and triumphs Adam has faced entering the Australian cannabis...

The Catch-Up is a collaboration between Give and Toke and AusCannaReviews. Paul and Christina meet monthly to explore what’s happening in Cannabis in Australia and worldwide.  In this episode: Kamala Harris and federal legalisation (1:55) Cannabis users skipping work (5:00) The Dispensed Dilemma (7:30) Releaf in trouble? (19:30) New compounding rules (23:00) Roadside testing in South Australia (27...

In this episode of the AusCannaPodcast, I sit down with Melanie Wentzel, a healthcare strategist, cannabis professional, and author of the upcoming book Cannabis Queens . Set to launch this December at MJBizCon, Cannabis Queens brings to life the stories of influential women shaping the cannabis industry across the globe. Join me as Melanie shares what inspired her to write the book, some of the s...

In this “On the Road” episode of the AusCannaPodcast, I sit down with Liz Warburton, a qualified naturopath and seasoned cannabis expert with a wealth of experience in the industry. Liz opens up about her journey of using cannabis to manage ADHD and insomnia from the age of 13, and how that early experience shaped her holistic approach to health and wellness. Drawing on her time managing operation...

In this special On The Road episode recorded in Melbourne, I sit down with Adam Isaac Miller, a pioneer in the Australian cannabis industry. With nearly a decade of experience, Adam has been a key figure in educating individuals and organizations about the ever-evolving cannabis market. He’s also the founder of Insiders Extract , a popular cannabis newsletter with over 12,000 subscribers. We dive...

The Catch-Up is a collaboration between Give and Toke and AusCannaReviews. Paul and Christina come together monthly to explore what’s happening in Cannabis in Australia and around the world.  In this episode: Ukraine legalises medicinal cannabis (2:40) Offensive odours (4:30) Dispensed founder banned (7:00) Is weed causing a booze sales slump? (13:00) Fiona Patten Returns (15:30) Singapore man fra...

In Season 2, Episode 3 of the AusCannaPodcast I sit down with Eric Chan the Chief Operating Officer at Cannabis Warehouse. Born and raised in Melbourne to immigrant parents from Hong Kong Eric seemed destined to follow a traditional corporate path until the birth of his first child at 26 shifted his focus towards healthcare. Along with the team at Cannabis Warehouse Eric has played a pivotal role...

This episode was recorded live at Mull Cafe in St. Kilda on Saturday 24th August. The Catch-Up is a collaboration between Give and Toke and AusCannaReviews. Paul and Christina come together monthly to explore what’s happening in Cannabis in Australia and around the world. In this episode: Teens and Gummies (1:00) Online Dealers (3:40) Jersey cops fired for smoking (5:10) Australian Exports (6:30)...

In Season 2, Episode 2 of the AusCannaPodcast, I sit down with Jessica Peros, co-owner of The Green Room Hydro, one of the East Coast’s largest hydroponic retailers. Tune in for an insightful conversation filled with personal stories and professional insights. And remember, if you have rapid-fire questions, email them in for a chance to get a shout-out and an AusCanna sticker pack! In this episode...

In the Season 2 premiere of the AusCannaPodcast, I sit down with the incredible Alice Davy. Alice, a neurodivergent single mother of two young boys, navigates life with stage 4 Endometriosis and Multiple Sclerosis while being a fervent advocate for cannabis reform and women’s and children’s health. As an active member of the Let Patients Drive campaign in Victoria, she works tirelessly to address...

Episode Description: Shop Give & Toke accessories at giveandtoke.com.au - use ‘CATCHUP’ at checkout for $10 off your purchase. The Catch-Up is a collaboration between Give and Toke and AusCannaReviews. Paul and Christina come together monthly to explore what’s happening in Cannabis in Australia and around the world.  In this episode: Quick Thailand Update (0:40) Stronger regulations on Australian...

In this episode, I sit down with Lisa Nguyen, an Australian-trained pharmacist and visionary founder and CEO of Astrid, Australia’s first boutique female-led dispensary specializing in medicinal cannabis, with a mission to destigmatize cannabis and provide patient-focused care. Under Lisa’s leadership, Astrid has become a multi-award-winning dispensary, recognized by the Australian Cannabis Awards...

Episode Description Shop Give & Toke accessories at giveandtoke.com.au - use ‘CATCHUP’ at checkout for $4.20 off your purchase. The Catch-Up is a collaboration between Give and Toke and AusCannaReviews. Paul and Christina come together monthly to explore what’s happening in Cannabis in Australia and around the world.  In this episode: Aus Senate rejects adult use cannabis (0:30) South Africa Legal...

In this compelling episode, I sit down with Alex Mitchell, the inspiring host of the Invisible Iconic Podcast and the innovative Founder of Invisible Iconic and Endo Circle. These two impactful small businesses are dedicated to providing educational resources and events for those dealing with chronic illnesses. Alex opens up about her journey, shedding light on her four-year experience as a legal...

Give & Toke accessories out now at giveandtoke.com.au - Use code ‘CATCHUP’ at checkout for $4.20 off your purchase. Expires May 31st. Australia only. The Catch-Up is a collaboration between Give and Toke and AusCannaReviews. Paul and Christina come together monthly to explore what’s happening in Cannabis in Australia and around the world.  In this episode: * 420 arrests in Melbourne (3:30) * Dolph...